Festive Cheesecake Pops β A Sweet Treat for Saint Nicholas Day π
Soft, creamy, and dipped in rich chocolate β these cheesecake pops are the perfect homemade candy for the holiday season. Kids will adore them, and grown-ups wonβt resist either!
Inspired by a beloved family recipe (affectionately named Cheesecake Paradis), these pops are a festive twist on classic cheesecake. With a velvety cream cheese base, dipped in white or dark chocolate and decorated with colorful sprinkles, they make the ultimate holiday bite-sized treat.
π Preparation Info
Prep time: ~30 min (plus chilling and freezing)
Cook time: 45 min
Yield: Approx. 30 pops
Difficulty: Medium
π Ingredients
- 450g cream cheese (e.g., Philadelphia)
- 100g sour cream
- 150g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (approx. 30g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 300g chocolate (white, milk, or dark β your choice)
- Colorful decorative sprinkles or crushed candies
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
πͺ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Base
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth. Add sour cream and flour, mix briefly.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Pour the batter into a small oven-safe dish (about 18 cm diameter). Place this dish inside a larger baking tray filled with water to create a water bath.
Bake at 170Β°C (340Β°F) for about 45 minutes. The cheesecake should be just set and lightly golden.
π‘ Tip: Baking in a water bath prevents cracks and ensures a smooth texture.
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Form the Cheesecake Balls
Scoop small portions using a spoon or melon baller (about the size of a Raffaello candy). Roll gently into smooth balls using damp hands.
Refrigerate the balls for 2β3 hours to firm them up.
3. Insert Sticks & Freeze
Insert a stick into each cheesecake ball. Place them on a tray lined with baking paper and freeze for a few hours until very firm.
4. Dip in Chocolate
Melt your chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second bursts.
Dip each frozen cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, then immediately sprinkle with decorations before the coating sets (it sets fast due to the cold).
Place pops upside-down on a plate or tray to cool completely.
π How to Serve & Store
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Great for lunchboxes, kidsβ parties, festive buffets, or holiday gifts.
- Add themed decorations (like gold dust, crushed candy canes, or coconut flakes) for a seasonal twist.
π‘ Extra Tips
- Use a mix of white, milk, and dark chocolate for variety.
- Add a few drops of almond or orange extract for a unique flavor layer.
- Make mini versions for elegant dessert tables or party favors.
- Freeze plain cheesecake balls in advance and coat them fresh before events.
π§ Final Thoughts
These festive cheesecake pops are a wonderful project for a cozy afternoon β fun to make, easy to customize, and absolutely delicious. A cross between candy and cake, they bring smiles to all ages and make perfect homemade gifts or additions to your holiday table.